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^iStoriqal Drama ip pour fate. 



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BERNARD DIERKES. 



ST. LOUIS, MO. 

G. AHNKR, Pkinter. 216 Locust Street. 
1887. 




THE EMPRESS. 

Historical Drama in Four Acts, 



BY 



BERNARD DIERKES. 




Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S87, 

By BERNARD D1ERKES. 

in the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. 

The right to perform "The Empress" is reserved by the Author. 



TMP 92-009102 



THE EMPRESS. 



CAST OF CHARACTERS. 

Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria. 

Count Bartenstein, Prime Minister of Austria. 

Count Wasner, Ambassador of Austria to the Court of France. 

Count Gotter, Ambassador of Prussia to the Court of Austria. 

Duke Francis, Husband of the Empress. 

Doctor Haversack, Medical Advisor of the Empress. 

Stanislaus Boskay, Hungarian Nobleman. 

Agnes, Maid of Honor to the Empress. 

Joseph and Ferdinand, Two Austrian Soldiers. 

Fued and William, Two Prussian Officers. 

Apparitions. 

Members of the Nobility, Soldiers. Hungarians, Pages, etc. 



ACT I.— SCENE L. 

(The castle garden of the Empress daring Spring time. The 
chapel of the Empress in the garden. Enter a company of noblemen 
and nobleladies attired in festive dress. AH freely move about. First 
nobleman addresses the company. 

Maria Theresa! — Empress of Austria since 3 7 esterday. Only on 
yesterday the illustrious daughter of Charles the Sixth assumed tlic 
reigns of government, and to-day we will pay our profound respects 
to our beautiful young sovereign, and renew our vow of allegiance 
to the House of Hapsburgh. Maria Theresa! — On by on yestcrdny a 
weak woman, and to-day all powerful. Well! so much for dhine 
inheritance. 



(First noble lady addresses the company. 

All, indeed! the glorious position now occupied by her Majesty 
is enough to make one quite envious. For why was not I, or any 
one of us called upon to reign, since we all have loyal blood cours- 
ing tcrough our veins. 

(Second noble lady addresses the company.) 

Yes bat oar blood is not of the right kind. O.ily that blood 
which flows through the veins of the members of the Hapsburgh 
family can find its way to the throne of Austria. 

(Second nobleman addresses the company.) 
So you see, though our blood is very fine, it is not fine enough. 

(First nobleman addresses the company.) 

That ought to settle the bloody question. So far as I am con- 
cerned, I care very little about who is, or who is not the occupant of 
the throne. My chief desire at present is to know whether we will 
have as pleasant times under Maria Theresa, as we had under her 
good and jolly father Charles the Sixth. 

(Third noble lady addresses the company.) 

Why of course we will have even jollier times. Hunting, theatre, 
balls and elegant banquets. Ah ! (smacks her lips) even now I have 
a foretaste of the good things to come. 

{First nobleman addresses the company.') 

Undoubtedly, it will be just as before. Who ever heard of a 
woman in high position ignoring the pleasures of life, especially at 
the Court of Austria. You may rest assured that the Empress is 
fond of pleasure and cares very little about affairs of State. That old 
bear, Prime Minister Bartenstein, will attend to all serious business. 
And now let us attend the audience of the Empress and then tra la! 
la! la! la! we will continue our round of pleasures. I will read the 
address of welcome. Long live Maria Theresa, our young Empress. 
{All cry out) Long may she live ! 



~- 6 ~ 

(Exit all arm in arm and dancing.) 
(Daring the last portion of the above dialogue Minister Barten- 
stein enters unobserved. He listens and after exit of the company says :) 

H:i ! ha! ha! You are a charming set of barnacles and flatter- 
er's. Jsot a word you uttered has escaped my ear. That old bear, 
the Prime Minister, will attend to all serious business. He will, in- 
deed, and the very first thing of a serious nature which will befall 
yonder company of good for nothing will be their prompt dismissal 
from Court, so that henceforth they will be obliged to depend upon 
themselves for support and will no longer be permitted to draw upon 
the imperial treasury to liquidate their accounts. Quite serious for 
persons having such fine royal blood. Ha! ha! very serious indeed. 
The Empress fond of pleasure and cares very little about affairs of 
State? Humph!— how little your shallow minds know about the 
qualification of her Imperial High ne>s. When on yesterday she for 
the first time sat in the midst of her aged and venerable ministers, it 
seemed to me as though the beauty and freshness of Spring had sud- 
denly appeared in the midst of the ripeness of Autumn. The grace, 
the beauty, the gentleness and above all the maturity of her wisdom 
concerning affairs of State astounded everyone who listened to her. 
Yes, I have every reason to be contented with Austria's prospects. 
Furthermore I, a -oh, bother! always interrupted Not a moment 
have I to myself. Yonder comes my eccentric friend, Doctor Haver- 
sack. He is a splendid physician with many queer habits. By nature 
very nearsighted and hence very suspicious. Old and not very hand- 
some, and therefore always in love with his extreme opposite, — youth 
and beauty. Medical advisor of the Empress, and therefore always 
ready to throw in a little extra advise concerning atlaiis of State. 
In short, a very good and useful fellow in his place, but withal a 
little too officious, and at present decidedly unwelcome. However, 
what am I going to do about it ? Here he is. 

(Enter Dr. Haversack dressed in ludricous and eccentric fashion. 
A large snvffbox in his hand, his pocket full of manuscript. He ad- 
vances towards Minister Bartenstein, looks at him eery closely and 
finally recognizing him, speaks very rapidly in his usual manner.) 



— 6 — ■ 

Good morning, good morning, Minister Bartenstcin. How fares 
jour high official pulse? I trust that you are well and not in need of 
medical advise. Ah, my ! what a busy man I am. I am just on my 
way to the Empress who, I am sure, is in need of ray services because 
of the great excitement she passed through on 3 r esterday . I shall insist- 
upon absolute repose. Repose, my dear Minister, is the best remedy 
after abnormal excitement. Moreover, my friend, you know that 1 am 
well versed in general history, and while her Majesty is reposing 
physically I will provide her with intellectual enjoyment by citing 
historic instances wherein great rulers have distinguished themselves 
for the good of their subjects, thus giving Her Highness learned 
and gentle hints how to do likewise. You see, my dear Minister, 
medicine, — in all modesty be it said, — medicine is not my only ac- 
complishment May I have the pleasure? (Offers his snuffbox.) 

(Bartenstein.) You say, medicine is not your only accomplish- 
ment, I sincerely wish it was. 

(Doctor.) Ah, thank j-ou. (Aside) Quite a doubtful compli- 
ment. But, really, I am a very busy man. You know, my dear Min- 
ister, I am also a student of the divine art, music. Here is 1113- latest 
criticism concerning the opera as performed last evening. (Gets out 
his manuscript. ) 

(Bartenstein aside.) Great heavens! what have I done to be thus 
annoyed. He will surely want to read it. 

(Doctor.) Of course anything flowing from my pen is neces- 
sarily of absorbing interest to the Court. I will give you a foretaste. 
( Doctor bet/ins to read.") (Bartenstein walks about impatiently ; Doc- 
tor follows.) On last evening the Opera house was filled to its utmos t 
capacity. It was the occasion of Mile. Vocalitini's first appearance. 
Veni I vidi ! vici ! She came, she saw, she conquered. (Bartenstein 
falling into a chair t says : ) 



tain me 



Oh, saintly Job! thou patron saint of patience, deliver and sus- 
roe. 



{Doctor.) Why my dear Minister you are looking ill. "What 
can I do for you ? 

(Bartenstein.) Only one thing. Don't let me taste any more 
of your powerful critique. It's too strong to take in large doses. 

(Dictnr.) Ah, thank you. (Aside) Quite a doubtful com- 
pliment. I am sorry your appetite for solid intellectual food is so 
limited. However, small doses at a time are more easily digested. 
I'll lake great pleasure to continue the treat some other time. 

(Bartenstein.) Thank j'ou dear Doctor. I trust the interval 
will be as long as possible, say about six months. 

(Doctor.) Ah, thank you. (Aside) Quite a doubtful com- 
pliment. But, really, friend Bartenstein. the Empress longs tosie 
me, and though I know that I am always welcome in your presence, 
and that you regret my departure, yet must I away. 

(Bartenstein, aside.) Yes, jes, I trust it will be far, far away. 

(Doctor.) I must, I will go at once. 

(Bartenstein.) Yes, I hope so. 

(Doctor.) You hope so. Ah, thank 3 T ou. (Aside.) Quite a 
doubtful compliment. (To Bartenstein) Your hope, Sir, shall be 
realized. Good morning, a very good morning, dear Bartenstein. 

(Exit Doctor, boicing profoundly.) 

(Bartenstein returns the boio, saying:) A very good morning, 
dear Doctor. 

(Enter Count Wasner.J 

( Wasner.) Ha! ha! it appears to be a very bad morning for 
critics. I congratulate you upon your escape. The old man is a 
good doctor, but, as a critique or statesman — the Lord deliver us from 
all like him. By the way, 1 have just seen a company of noblemen 



and nobleladies apparently on their way to the audience chamber of 
the Empress. Who are they ? 

(Bartenstein.) I will tell you. They are members of the nobil. 
it}'. Persons of superfine royal blood. Their object is to congrat- 
ulate the Empress upon her accession to the throne, and to offer 
themselves willing to continue in the service of the State. Great ser- 
vices they have rendered. The Empress is prepared for them. 

(Count Wasner.) Well, — really, I do not understand. 

(Bartevsteiti ) Are you not aware that after the death of Char- 
les the Sixth the whole Empire was found to be submerged in debt. 
Debts, heavy debts staring us everywhere in the face. The good old 
Emperor, may his soul rest in peace, was very kind, too kind, but 
alas, very negligent and reckless. Pleasure was his chief object. 
Theatres, hunting, balls and festivals without number swallowed the 
revenues which should have been applied in sustaining the Imperial 
army and other departments of the State. A large crowd of cour- 
tiers were in so called active service of the State, but their services 
consisted merely in dancing at the royal balls, attending the Imper- 
ial Theatre and hunting upon the royal hunting grounds. Every day 
was a continuation of dissipation. The Emperor was seemingly 
adored by a company of the most dangerous flatterers and hypocrites, 
and the very persons whom you have just seen, are they who have 
so shamefully played upon the weaknesses of our deceased Emperor, 
and who now have the effrontery to transfer their false and studied 
adoration from the father to his illustrious daughter, little dreaming 
that a most severe but just rebuke, and disgraceful dismissal from 
Court is in sto're for them. Yes my friend, let us fervently hope and 
pray that Maria Theresa's reign will be replete with blessedness fur 
our beloved Austria. But one thought continually mars and darkens 
the bright picture which I so fondly drew upon the tablets of my 
imagination concerning Maria's prospective reign. The solemn cov- 
enant of the Pragmatic Sanction. Will it remain inviolate by the 
Powers who guaranteed its strict observance by royal signature 
and seal. Its possible violation is the dark thought that haunts me 
day and night. 



-~ 9 ~. 

(Wasner.) Nay, nay, Minister Bartcnstcin. Do not permit 
such thoughts to disturb your slumber. I have a little more faith in 
royal signatures and seals of State ; and I for one consider the vio- 
lation of the Pragmatic Sanction an impossibility so far as personal 
honor and fair dealing is concerned. 

(Bartenstein.) Humph. My good friend, honor and fair deal- 
ing, I regret to say, are only too often elements entirely foreign in the 
composition of diplomats. 

{Wanner.) No, no. The covenant of the Pragmatic Sanction 
is too solemn, and I reiterate that I cannot believe any of the parties 
thereto will have the. audacity to violate any of its conditions. 

(Bartenstein.) May heaven grant that ycur hopeful view of the 
situation will be justified by future events. I am full of apprehension 
and my reason for alarm can be demonstrated best by a review of the 
stipulations and agreements of that famous document known as tlie 
Pragmatic Sanction. Let us for a moment consider its origin and the 
magnitude of its importance. When the Emperor Charles the Sixth. 
the good and gentle father of our beloved Maria Theresa closed his 
eyes in death, the male issue of the Hapsburgh family became ex- 
tinguished. It was the constant prayer and the dearest wish of the 
Emperor that a son should be born unto him, upon whose head and 
shoulders the Imperial crown and mantle of Austria should descend. 
The Imperial prayer was in vain. Heaven for some inscrutable rea- 
son did not vouchsafe to grant it. At last when the Emperor found 
that his earthly pilgrimage was about to close, and that his fondest 
hope could not be realized, he called together and convened about 
him all of the nobility representing the various crownlands of the 
House of Hapsburg, and from them obtained the solemn promise and 
consent that should the male issue of the House of Ilapsburgh become 
extinguished by his death, in that event the Imperial crown should 
descend upon his beloved daughter Maria Theresa, together with the 
right to reign as Empress of Austria. The representatives of the 
crownlands solemnly promised to grant the wUh of the Emperor, and 
accordingly stipulations and agreements were drawn and signed, and 



— 10 — 

then and there received Pragmatic Sanction. Venice. Sardinia, Rome, 
England, Poland, Prussia, France, Russia and Saxony, when made 
acquainted with the Pragmatic Sanction, solemnly guaranteed to up- 
hold, and if necessary to defend it. That is the origin of the cele- 
brated compact and the magnitude of its importance can be appre. 
ciated when we consider that it saves to the House of Hapsburgh the 
Imperial crown of Austria, even though it should rest u L on the head 
of a woman. Will the compact be honored by strict compliance with 
iis conditions by Bavaria, Prussia, Fiance and Saxony. That is the 
momentous question which continually haunts me. 

(Wasner.) Ah! — I see, I see. 

(Bartenstein.) Yes my dear friend, you may deem it imprudent 
on my part to speak so freely about matters of State, but remember 
it is only to you who has known me in my humblest condition that I 
thus unbosom myself, well knowing that j'ou will not abuse my con- 
fidence. 

(Wasner.) Your communication will be stored in my breast and 
there remain unrevealed. I too feel that with the reign of our young 
Empress new life and vigor will be imparted to all affairs of State. 
As friend of her Majesty I often had occasion to admire her splendid 
talents. #She indeed possesses the wisdom and steadfastness of her 
ancestor Rudolph the First; the beauty of his nephew Frederick; the 
gift to charm every heart as possessed by her ancestor Maximilian, 
and the deep religious convictions of her grandfather. But see! 
yonder is the Empress. She is coming towards the garden appar- 
ently in deep meditation. 

(Bartenstein.) It is her Majesty. Every morning before enter- 
ing upon the duties of the day, she renews her love of nature bv a 
visit to the castle garden. Usually, just as you now see, she reads 
some useful book, and when the chapel bell ealls to holy Mass, she 
attends to commune with her Creator, imploring Him to grant her 
wisdom and charity in deciding matters concerning her Empire. Come 
now, let us quietly retire, lest we may disturb her Majesty. 

(Exit Bartenstein and Wasner.) 



— 11 — 

(Enter Empress Maria Theresa reading a book. For a moment 
she continues to read, then looks upon the scene and exclaims:) 

The first season of the year. How sweet the music! 
The gentle zephyrs of Spring as they waft o'er hill and dale, 
Brook and liiver, sea and dry land, 
Touch a cliord of hope within the human hreast. 
In strains of gentlest sympathy they breathe upon frozen nature, 
Inviting all things to awake and join in the glad hymn of resurrection. 
And lo, behold! 

Ere long all nature appears in fresh attire, 
The birds rehearse their sweetest songs; 
All the insect world hums in happy unison. 
Even man, the Creators masterpiece, checks his busy gait, 
While with a grateful smile he hearkens to nature's invitation to rejoice. 
Renewed life, renewed hope the inspiring music of nature's orchestra 
Pours into his every vein. 

(While the Empress recites the above lines, her husband, Francis 
Stephan, Duke of Lorraine, enters. He listens attentively, stea'ihihj 
approaches the Empress and after she ceases speaking, claps his hands 
and exclaims:) Bravo Maria! Bravo Maria! 

(Empress.) Ah! my beloved Francis! (reclines in his arms) 
Why did you plaj- eavesdropper? Dearest Francis, 1 am so happy. 

(Francis.) Beloved Maria, you seem indeed as happy as a 
child. 

(Empress.) And why should I not be? By virtue of my young 
years I have youth. By virtue of the Imperial dignity resting upon 
my shoulders, I have power. From you, beloved husband, as the free 
choice of my heart, I have affection. Recognizing an allwise Creator, 
to whom I am accountable for each act done or omitted, I have 
peace of conscience. Youth, power, affection and peace of con- 
science! Dearest Francis, what more could I ask? But far above 
the Imperial crown do I prize one other dignity. I mean the oxalted 
dignity bestowed upon me by virtue of being a mother. Every morn- 
ing the young voices of my children greet me with the sweetest salute 
that ever fell on mortal car: Mother!— and when night comes, their 
weary little arms are outstretched to clasp me in bonds of truest and 



— 12 -r- 

most sincere affection, while from innocent lips again and again falls 
the affectionate salutation : Mother ! 

(Francis.) How thankful I should be, beloved Maria, that in 
you, the first lady of the land, the people possesses a conscientious 
ruler, my children a devoted mother, and 1 a true and faithful wife. 

(Empress.) How kind and encouraging to hear such praise from 
your lips. And yet, ah me ! (sighs.) 

(Francis.) You well deserve it. But why look sad and sigh so 
suddenly? 

(Emprem.) I know not how it is. 
Often, in the very midst of happy moments 
A strange apprehension of a speedy change steals over me. 
Look at the leaves of yonder trees, 
Protecting in their in Unite multitude and multiformity 
Each living creature with cooling shadows. 
Soon, soon they will fall, and their rustling will be 
As a chant of complaint because of man's ingratitude ; 
For then they will be trod upon by those whom in their bloom 
They shielded from the burning midday sun. 

Such thoughts, dear Francis, of coming ingratitude, change and decay 
Suddenly overcome me, even in the very midst of bliss and happiness. 
And I know-not how, a mysterious voice then seems to whisper 
Th.it soon, very soon the worm of envy, hatred and ungratefulness 
Will begin to gnaw at the pillars of the throne of the house of Hapsburgh, 
Which, if not resisted in its inception, 
Will cause its speedy declension and fall ! 

(Francis.) Come now ( do not permit such gloomy thoughts to 
trouble you. Should the envious worm appear we will speedily make 
it harmless by crushing it out of existence. Come now, be cheerful. 

(Empress.) Yes, yes, I will follow your advice. Forgive me, 
I could not help it. 

(Enter a servant.) If it please your Majesty, a number of per- 
sons, evidently belonging to the nobility, are desirous to be pre- 
sented. 



— 13 ~ 

(Empress.) Anxious to be presented? — Ah, 3-es, I remember. 
I think I know the object of their visit. Francis, why not receive 
them here? 

(Francis.) Certainly Maria, as 3-011 please. 

(Empress to servant.) Go conduct them here. But first of all, 
I desire to see Minister Bartenstein. Ah! yonder he comes. (Exit 
servant.) (ToFranzis.) You must remain also and assist at the 
reception. 

(Francis.) With pleasure. 

(Enter Bartenstein. He approaches the Empress who holds forth 
her hand which the Minister reverently kisses.) 

(Empress.) Good morning Minister Baatenstein. I desire your 

presence dining a reception. You lemcmber. Are you well? 

(Bartenstein.) Thanks, gracious Majesty, always better in your 
presence. (Aside) llaMia! nowTor an icy reception, that old bear 
will attend to all serious business. Ha ! ha ! 

(Empress.) Why my dear Minister, you seem to be highly 
amused. What is the matter? 

(Bartenstein.) Pardon me your Highness. I, — I was thinking 
of the Doctor. (Aside) Heaven fargive the untruth. 

(Empress.) Ah, how sad the dear good Doctor cannot assist 
at the reception. He is such a dear good soul. Such a profound 
statesman. Ha! ha! What a delightful lecture he delivered this 
morning on history and repose. Ah, my! almost overwhelming. 

(Francis.) It is time to cease jesting about the good Doctor. 
See, yonder he comes. 

(Empress.) Yes, and he seems absorbed in deep study. He 
appears to be reading aloud to himself. 

(Bartenstein.) Perhaps rehearsing my second dose of his pow- 
erful critique. 



(Empress.) Or perchance it is the second chapter of my his- 
toric lecture. At all events let us remain very quiet, so as not to 
disturb the flow of his profound production. 

(Enter Doctor.) 

(Doctor.) I hold here in my hand what I consider the most 
classic production of my pen. It is a criticism which I fear but few, 
very few persons will be able fully to appreciate. In truth, it is a 
most ciitical criticism, which I have no doubt will amaze futuic gen- 
erations because of the depth and profundity of the critical analysis 
of the Divine art. I have— in all modesty be it said — simply sur- 
passed myself. How I long to read it to the Empress with voice and 
gesture about like this. (Doctor proceeds to read:) Impressions of 
the Opera. The entire performance was a success. It was a gala 
night. All the stars of the local musical firmament appeared, and 
when they sang together, it was like the harmony of the spheres on 
the morning of Creation. Mile. Vocalitini shone with especial splen- 
dour. Her singing at the close of the third act was superb. How 
exquisitely legato were her itaccato passages. Her fortissimo* were 
like the swell of the great oigan, while her pianissimos were like the 
sweet murmurings of the fagotto. Her trillandos beginning so ten- 
derly andante, increasing a la allegro et poco a poco crescendo, and 
diminishing a la adagioso et poco a poco pianissimo, and finally end- 
ing in the faintest and most delicate Jlorituri. Ah, my! what a gifted 
singer she is. The closing bars of her solo gave her an opportunity 
to display the impjoso of her execution. Spell bound and enraptured 
the great audience followed her vocalization. On, on and still on- 
ward ; up, up and still upward the great cant ati ice boldly and fear- 
lessly a la majestoso et f arioso* as though driven by a whirlwind of 
passion ploughed her vocal way until finally a la prestissimo the grand 
climax was reached by entoning with a clear, pure and strong ab- 
dominal chest tone the high C. That is what I term, — in all mod- 
esty be it said, — a purely classic critique and which can only be ap- 
preciated by purely classic ears. ( While the Doctor reads his critique 
the Empress and all present look at each other in amazement, scarcely 
able to control their laughter, and the- Doctor having finished, they all 
cry out:) Bravo Doctor ! Bravo Doctor! 



— 15 — 

(Empress.) That my dear Doctor is doubtless your latest. 

(Bartenstein.) Heaven grant that it may also be his last. 

(Doctor.) Ah, thank you. (Aside) Quite a doubtful compli- 
ment. Pardon me. most gracious Majesty. I was not aware of \ our 
august presence. However, I trust that the pleasure cxp< rid n cud in 
heating my latest will by far outweigh the annoyance caused by my 
unintentional intrusion. Once again before going, I ask your Ma- 
jesty's pardon. 

(Empress.) No no, good Doctor, do not go. You have our 
full pardon. But pray, let your future efforts be not quite so, not 
quite so, — so a, -so a, — I mean — 

(Bartenstein ) Not quite so tremendously laborious. 

(Empress.) Yes yes, I believe that's it. 

(Doctor.) Ah, thank you. (Aside) Quite a doubtful com- 
pliment. 

(Enter servant.) If it please your Majesty, the nobility awaits 
your pleasure. 

(Empress.) Admit them. I will endeavor to listen patiently. 
(Servant beckons the nobility to advance. The Empress sits down into 
a large chair, while the Doctor, Francis and Bartenstein remain 
s tanding.) 

(Empress.) Pray my noble ladies and gentlemen, what is your 
desire? 

(First nobleman advances and reads an address.) To her Ma- 
jesty, Empress of Austria, we, her servants, hereby beg leave to pre- 
sent our congratulations upon her accession to the throne ; well know- 
ing that her force of mind and strength of character will bestow much 
benefit upon our country. And as in the past we have served her 
Majesty's august and lamented father, so in the futuie we all cheer- 
fully and voluntarily orter to continue in the service of the illustrious 
daughter of Charles the Sixth, and hereby say: Long live Maria 
Theresa, Empress of Austria. 



— 16 — 

(Empress rises.) Thank you my noble ladies and genllcmep. 
My sincere thanks. Your address was very idee. Very neat indeed. 
But pray, if I may inquire, of what consisted your services during 
my father's reign? Pardon me if I am ignorant of your valorous 
and patriotic deeds. If not mistaken, I recognize in you a goodly 
part of a certain swarm of flatterers which surrounded the throne of 
my beloved, but too kind and gentle father. I well remember how 
regularly you attended the Imperial Opera, how gracefully you 
danced at the royal balls, and served as elegant ornaments at all the 
festivities of the Court. Pleasure, pleasure, nothing but pleasure 
seemed, and yet seems to be the beginning a»d end, the height and 
depth of your ambition. 

Therefore, as guardian of the interests of the people. I have re- 
solved to decline your future valuable services, and now command 
your speedy resignation. Though outwardly you carry the Austrian 
uniform, inwardly your hearts beat without affection for the House of 
Hapsburgh. Go! henceforth the affairs of State need a watt hfui 
ej'e, and mine shall be east upon them. (Exit nobility in great C071- 
fusion.) 

(Bartcnstein aside.) Ha! ha! that old bear will attend to all 
serious business. 

(Francis aside.) By my patron Saint Francis, the beginning 
of Maria's reign is very significant. 

(Doctor aside.) Very doubtful those compliments ; very doubt- 
ful indeed. 

(Empress.) I thank you gentlemen for j'our kind attendance, 
and now that the time appointed for m}- morning devotion has come 
you will pardon my desire to be alone. 

(Francis.) We will retire at once with 3 r our permission. 

(Empress.) Good morning gentlemen. 

(Exit Francis, Doctor and Bartenstein.) 






,- 17- — 

(The chapel bell announces the hour of prayer. The Empress 
assumes an attitude of devotion. 7 he chapel choir sings a hymn, 
accompanied by the organ. While the chapel choir sings, the Em- 
press slowly approaches the chapel entrance. Just as the Empress 
is about to enter the chapel, Con ut Boskay, a Hungarian nobleman 
enters the garden not aware of the presence oj the Empress.) 

( loskay.) Maria's foes are without number. 

[Empress starts and listens eagerly.) 
And no true man will by treachery her cause and right betray. 
So spake her friends and I must confess 
That their words of warning follow me wherever I go. 
Even now my conscience is troubled more than usual. 
I The Empress 't is said, teems and is radiant with beauty, 
Whereby she exercises great influence. 
I too admire a lovely and virtuous woman, 
But at presiiit my country's rights are far more important 
Than angelic forms and captivating features. 
Hungaria! dear Hungaria! 
There was a time when thou coulds't claim 
Th.it dearest of all blessings, — Independence, 
While now of thy former self but a mere shadow remains. 
How long! how long wid you endure the yoke of mi^government ? 

(Enter a servant.) 

Pardon me my lord, are you Count Stanislaus Boskay? 

(Boskay.) I am. What is your desire? 

(Servant.) I was requested b}- a person unknown to me to de- 
liver this letter. (Exit servant.) 

(Boskay reads.) Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony arc now 
ready to break the covenant of the Pragmatic Sanction. Now a glor- 
ious opportunity is presented to Hungaria to shake off' Austiia's rule 
by joining in the revolt against Maria Theresa. Come to Berlin at 
once. A friend of Hungaria. 

(Boskay.) Never will Hungaria act the part of traitor against 
Austiia's young Empress. Hungaria scorns liberty procured by 
t •eacherv. However, I will go to Berlin and there await further de- 
velopments. (Exit Boskay.) 

(Empress.) Maria Theresa's foes are without number?— Ba- 
varia, Prussia, France aud Saxony arc now ready to break the cov- 



errant of the Pragmatic Sanction. ? Now a glorious opportunity is 
presented to Hungaiia to shake off Austria's rule by joining in the 
revolt against Maria Theresa? Can it he?— Can it be? — lias the 
worm of envy, hatred and jealousy now festering in the breast of 
Frederick already spread its foul contagion over all downed Europe ; 
that even now 't is prepared to gnaw and gnaw at the mighty pillars 
of the House of Ilapsburgh until Austria's throne shall topple and 
bury beneath its ruins a helpless woman? Helpless! I sin not help- 
less. My own brain shall solve the problem to destroy and crush the 
net of intrigue prepared and spread by Prussias wily and unscrupu- 
lous king; and thus by my own intrinsic* power will I become the 
saviour of my beloved Austiia. Ilungaria scorns liberty procured 
by treachery. So spake the noble stranger. His brave words indi- 
cate and point out to me what first of all I must do. I must make a 
friend of the noble stranger and through him win the affection of 
Hungarian nobility. May heaven grant a speedy opportunity. 

(At this moment the chapel bell again rings. The chapel 
choir softly sings. The Empress walks slowly towards the chapel 
entrance -where she pauses and says : ) 

For Austria's welfare I now will pray, 

At Jehovah's feet my petition lay, 

To thee Austria's Empress gives implicit trust 

And only then will enter war if she must. 

(Empress enters the chapel.) 

(E titer two Austria)!, soldiers.) 

(Soldier.) This being devotions hour of her Majesty, we must 
not permit visitors to enter the chapel. Now to our post. (Soldiers 
patrol before the chapel.) 

(Enter Count Boskay in a state of bewilderment.) Strnnge, 
very strange. I have lost my way. I cannot for the world find my 
way out of this park The whole place seems to he deserted Ah I 
yonder is a chapel. Perhaps I will find some one there to inform me 
how to get ou' of this garden. (He approaches the chapel.) 

(Soldier.) Halt! you Hungarian dog. 

(Boskxy.) Villain! your impudence shall not go unpunished 

(Draws his sword.) 



(Soldier.) At Mm, comrade"; measure well your blows. 

(The soldiers attack Boskay who defends himself vigorously, 
but is finally overpowered and thrown upon the ground. At this 
moment a strain of music coming from the chapel, is heard. The 
soldiers look up alarmed. 77ie /impress appears and rushing up- 
on the combatants, exclaims : ) What means such unfair attack. 
(Exit soldiers in great haste. ) 

(Boskay.) 'T is my guardian angel! So help mc my patron, 
Saint Stanislaus. 

(Empress.) Why so long upon your knees? Arise, I pray 
you. 

( .' skai ) Before a subject of mortality 
Count Boskay ne'r has bend a knee; 
But before thine angelic form, 
Adorned so richly by the Master's hand 
No man can stand. 

Had thy majestic presence not appeared so timely, 
I now would be a member of the dead. 

(Emp?'?ss.) Nay, Count Boskay. Not to me give all your praise, 
His instrument [ but was who guides all our ways. 
But pray, what commission brought thee from Hungaria? 

(Boskay) One upon <>re:i^>onscquences depend. 

(Empress.) And to whom is it directed? 

(Boskay.) To her, who by her great beauty controls the min- 
istry. 

(Empress.) Ah! pray, who may that beaut}- be? 

(Boskay.) 'T is Maria Theresa, Austria's young Empress. 

(Empress.) Ah, indeed. But my lord, the Empress is pleased 
to grant assistance to all her people. You have betrayed the nature 
of your commission. I think it is a plea for the restoration of Hun- 
gaiia's former rights. 

(Boskay.) Your conclusion is xcry true. 

(Empress.) Thanks Count Boskay, though I think your tongue 
shares the weakness of woinans. However, one feels pleased toshaic 
the confidence of a stranger in matters of such great moment. 



-#- 20 — 

(fto.s^y/) O'i. fairost ladv ! If concerning my commission 
I too much gossiped in this wondrous meeting, 
'T was because something told me 
That thy intercession for my dear H angaria 
Will be of great benefit. 

In gazing upon thee one is persuaded to believe 
That in thy veins the blood of royalty flows. 

{Empress ) All mankind can to royalty aspire, 
Even the lowliest born. 
Control but thy hearts desire, 
And royalty will thee adorn. 
I not allude to royalty of chance 
Conveyed by so-called divine inheritance. 
Too oft' does it degrade 
The grandeur of its significance. 
Would you find a royal heart ? 
Go not to royal Courts 
Forms only docs it there embrace, 
While deeds the foulest their hearts debase. 
Would you find a royal heart? 
Go where conscience does reign, 
It alone can royalty impart 
To King and Peasant all the same. 

(Roskay.) By Saint Stanislaus ! reveal thyself! Who art thou ? 
What majesty in thy bearing, 

What sweetness in thy voice and learning in thine eye. 
As yet I know not who thou art, but this I know, 
If ;ill thy sex woil 1 list jn to thy counsel 
Young men would love more purely, 
And home be made more happy. 
Again I implore thee, reveal thyself, 
Who art thou ? 

(Empress.) Im am thy sovereign, Maria Theresa, Empress 
of Austria. 

(Bos/cay.) My sovereign. Empress of Austria ! 
Henceforth my life shall be at thy command. 

[Empress.) Thanks! thanks oh thou great Jehovah, 
I have found a friend for my beloved Austria. 
May this truth to all mankind be taught, 
That none in vain thy intercession sought. 

(End of Act first.) 



— 21 - 

ACT II.— SCENE I. 

(Night. The studio and bed chamber of the Empress. The bed 
chamber is separated from the studio by two large curtains. Candles 
are dimly hunting in the studio. The Empress is sitting at her study 
table in deep meditation. 

(Empress ) No, no ! I cannot give serious attention to prevailing rumor3, 
That Prussia has already violated the covenant of the Pragmatic Sanction m 
Neither can my soul believe th^t Frederick contemplates 
The annexation of Silesia to the Prussian domain. 
No, no ! so base no royal heart could be. 
'T is true, ever since I assumed the reigns of government, 
A strange voice continuously seems to whisper 
That mighty things are being planned in other crowned heads 
Against the throne of Austria. 

At times I can scarcely keep my tongue from uttering my fear, 
While in other moments a gentle calmness of mind 
Lulls me into a sense of such strong security, 
As to almost persuade me that all my anxiety concerning Austria 
Is without foundation. Would to heaven it were so. 

(Enter Agnes, maid of honor.) 

(Empress.) Ah. Agnes. Is it time to retire? How fast the 
hours fly. 

(Agnes.) It is time, your Majesty. 

(Empress.) Come then, wrap me in my furs. I feel so cold. 
Hear how the wind breaks the silence of the night. (The wind is 
heard blowing.) 'T is well so. Good night Agnes. 

(Agnes.) Good night most gracious Majesty. 

(Exit Agnes.) 
(Empress.) Agnes ! Agnes ! (Enter Agnes.) 
(Agnes.) Has your Majesty called me? 

(Empress.) Yes. Pray do not forget to watch carefully over 
my dear little ones. 



_ 22 — 

(Agnes.) They all have gone to sleep, their last words being a 
prayer for your Majesty. 

(Empress.) What a cheering benediction from the lips of youth 
and innocence to accompany our sleep. Thank you, dear Agnes, 
good night. (Exit Agnes.) 

(The curtains of the bed room now slowly open. The Empress 
enters her bed room and, kneels for a few moments in silent prayer 
during which the organ softly plays. The curtains dose, leaving only 
the studio visible. Enter Agnes on tip-toe.) 

(Agnes.) Never before Lave I seen the Empress act so strange- 
ly. Well, its no wonder. Her Majesty has reas< n to be alarmed 
because, from certain remarks which I overheard, in spite of all my 
efforts not to hear, I judge that her roj r al Highness will soon have 
trouble with his royal Highness, the king of Prussia. The truth is 
that Prussia wants no less than Silesia. Gracious! here I stand, 
talking to myself. And yonder comes Dr. Haversack, paying his 
regular visit to her Majesty to feel her pulse before retiring. Too late 
this evening. The Empress has already retired. I have an idea. I'll 
play ii joke on the good old man. Shall I? Yes I will. Heaven 
forgive me but I'll do it innocently. No bad intention whatever. I'll 
play Empress. The Doctor is so nearsighted that by changing my 
voice a little he will, — in all modesty be it said, — take me for the 
Empress. I will &it as stately, act as sedately, and bow as graciously 
as possible, and then reach forth my hand to have it kissed, and my 
pulse felt. Gracious, what a mean thing I am. But really, I can't 
help it. The opportunity for a little fun at the good Doctors ex- 
pense is so good. Here he comes. 

(Enter Doctor. His pockets filled with documents. He rever- 
ently approaches Agnes, bows profoundly and says:) I trust your Ma- 
jesty is very well to-night. (Agnes botes her head in a very stately 
manner and reaches forth her hand which the Doctor gently passes to 
his lips and then proceeds to feel her pulse.) 

(Doctor.) A truly royal pulse. Splendid condition. I con- 
gratulate your Majesty. This morning the rapidity of your pulse 



— 23 — 

alarmed me ; now, however, everything is in first class condition. 
A regular normal pulse. 

(Agnes.) Everything may be very normal, but, really dear 
Doctor, I have a peculiar paiu right here. (Places her hand on her 

heart.) 

(Doctor.) Impossible! I will examine at once. Pardon me 
your .Majesty. (The Doctor gently raises Agnes' arm over his head, 
and places his ear en her breast to examine her heart.) 

(Doctor.) Not the slightest flutter or irregularity. Perfectly 
normal. My services this evening were entirely useless and super- 
fluous. 

(Agnes.) Entirely useless and superfluous as usual I presume. 

(Doctor.) Entirely useless and superfluous as usual? — Ah, 
thanks your Majesty. (Aside.) Quite a doubtful compliment. 

(Agnes.) Ha! ha! Very doubtful indeed. 80 mine is a truly 
royal pulse. Pardon me dear good Doctor. Really I could not help 
it. The opportunity for a little nonsense was so very good. Now, 
please don't look angry. I'll never do it again. Please forgive me. 

(Doctor ) Agnes, Agnes. It is not fair to take advantage of 
the infirmity of my eyesight. However, I know you did not mean to 
hurt my feelings, only a little nonsense, and therefore I'll forgive 
you, provided you promise me that you will not say a word about it 
to anyone because, you see my dear, it will never do for the Em- 
press to find out that I could not tell the difference between a royal 
and an ordinary pulse. And now, you beautiful rogue, I will read 
you a composition on the manipulation of the voice composed by me, 
(Gets out his manuscript.) You see my dear, — pardon me for calling 
you dear,— but really I am so very fond of the young and beautiful, 
(tips her under the chin,) as I s.iid before you tee a, 



_ 24 — 

(Agnes.) Oh, certainty my dear Doctor. I see it all. Your 
fondness for the young and beautiful is just like that of a grandfather 
for his grandchildren . Real grandf atherly . ( Tips him under the chin.) 

(Doctor.) Real grandfather!} - ? — Ah, yes! I sec. Old enough 
to be a grandfather. (Aside.) Quite a doubtful compliment. Well, 
as I said before, or rather as I wanted to say, you perhaps arc not 
aware that Doctor of Medicine is not my only accomplishment. I 
have branched out in several directions. For instance, — in all mod- 
esty be it said, — Music, History and the Fine Arts in general have 
received my valuable attention. My latest essay is on the manipu- 
lation of the voice. You will permit me to read. (Doctor unrolls a 
large manuscript.) 

(Agnes.) Certainly dear Doctor. But before commencing to 
read you will be kind enough to excuse me for a few moments. I'll 
return presently. 

(Doctor.) Certainly my dear, I'll excuse you, but only for a 
little while. In the mean time I'll arrange my manuscript. 

(Agnes.) Yes, arrange it very nicely. Now be sure of my 
return. 

(Doctor.) Why certainty. 

(Agnes.) (Aside.) Why certainly not. — Good bye, Doctor. Be 
sure while reading to manipulate your voice real nicely so as to bring 
out every necessary modulation and emphasis. Good bye, (Exit 
Agnes.) 

(Doctor.) Good bye you lovely creature. Now don't be long. 
(Doctor arranges his manuscript in every possible way, awaiting the 
return of Agnes; finally a suspicicion dawns upon him that she will 
not return and he says:) I am afraid my audience will be very small 
to-night. Agnes told me to manipulate my voice real nicely so as to 
bring out all proper effects. Certainly Miss Agnes, manipulate real 
nicely, all to myself. Thank you Miss Agnes. Quite a doubtful 
compliment. (Exit Doctor.) 



— 25 — 

f 7#e curtains of the Empress* bed room slowly cpcn. The 
Empress is seen lying upon her couch. She dreams of Peace. All 
the emblems ofipeacepass before her vision. In her dream she 
sees a village surrounded by green fields over which the setting sun 
throws his golden rays. A ploughman is seen tilling his field. 
A shepherd is seen, surrounded by his Jlock. Angels are seen 
strewing flowers. Soft strains of music pervade the air. The 
countenance of the Empress expresses rapturous delight. — Enter 
an apparition.) 

(Apparition speaks : ) 

Sleep, young sovereign sleep. 

And may peace forever reign within the borders of your land. 

(Exit Apparition. 

(Empress speaks in her sleep : ) 

Peace, sweet peace ! how came it to pass 

That thou dwellest so truly realized upon this Earth ? 

Heaven kisses Earth, while Earth kisses Heaven, 

And peace, sweet peace makes all the Universe harmonious. 

Here, here ! let me forever dwell. 

My kingdom for this dear abode. 

(The vision of peace now vanishes. The Empress awakes and 
sits up in her couch, and no longer seeing the vision of Peace, 
exclaims : ) 

All, all is vanished. 

Peace on this Earth ? — No, no, 't was but a dream. 

I will again endeavor to sleep. 

And should my dream of Peace again return, 

'lhen I wish this night would be eternal. 

(The Empress again lies down to sleep. She dreams of war. 
All the emblems of War pass before her vision. In her dream 
she sees the same village entirely demolished and in ruins. The 
shepherd is seen flying in terror, his flock all scattered. The 
ploughman lies dead beside his broken plough. A hideous figure 
brandishes a fire brand. The elements are in tiproar. The Em~ 
press tosses about, her countenance expressing intense agony. She 
again speaks in her sleep:) 



Peaceful village, how came this horrid war. 
Murder .md famine over thee ? 

(Enter an apparition. It advances towards the Empress 
and speaks:) 

Ah, Maria Theresa ! 

Learn that the village which in thy dreams thou hast seen 

Thine Empire represents. 

Sweet Peace, the first dream bestowed. 

The second, grim and horrid war. 

Of war provoking monarchs. 

Beware ! beware ! beware ! 

Beware of Prussias Frederick ; 

Also shun king Louis of France. 

Frederick will play thee many foul trick, 

While Louis is jealous of thy Imperial crown. 

Beware of Bavaria's Albert 

He too displays a lust 

The Austrian House of Hapsburgh 

To trample into dust. 

(Exit apparition.) 

(The Empress suddenly au-akes. She starts from her couch and 
falling upon her knees, exclaims :) 

Have mercy, oh God ! have mercy upon my land. 

(Trie Empress being now thoroughly aroused, rises, looks about 
her and continues : ) 

Why stand I here in such unseasonable hour of the night ? 

Why sleep not and rest from the fatigue of day ? 

Ah ! I remember. 

Two singular dreams, one in contrast with the other 

Have Wrought within my mind such strange agitation. 

I would I could persuade myself 

That dreams are but dreams, void of significance, 

Mere accompaniments of sleep and empty phantoms of an excited brain. 

Alas. no. Some dreams I believe often foreshadow the deeds 

That lie concealed in the deep bosom of the future. 

Two dreams. — The first of peace. Oh ! that it would be verified. 

The second of war and all its dreadful consequences. 

Oh, God ! inflict not upon my land such awful visitation. 



Peace and plenty the frst would give my Austria; 
The second nothing but famine and deep affliction. 
This nights impression till my heart even unto despair. 
Why oh God ! was I not born a Peasant 
Instead of a crowns heir ? 

(Enter Agnes. J 

(Empress.) Who is there? 

(Agnes. J It is I. But why does your Majesty appear so 
alarmed ? 

{E "/> p. s.) Oh, Agnes! is it you ? How strange this night has been. 
In truth I am as much alarmed as I appear. 
Abide with me, I dread to be longer alone. 
Though my conscience is as light as innocence. 
Is it yet long until the morning? 

(Agnes.) The day has already dawned and I have come to 
attend your Majesty's desire. 

(Empress.) First of all I desire to see Minister Bartenstein. 

(Agnes.) Even now the Minister is walking in the garden ap- 
pearing like one whose peace of mind had been disturbed by receiv- 
ing alarming news. 

{E>iqwa& ) Alarming news ? — Go, go, bid him to appear at once. 

(Exit Agnes.) 

Alarming news? — Perchance from Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony? 

My dreams. — Oh, my dreams. (E .ter Ucate nu tn ) 

Ah, friend Bartenstein ! 

Friend said I ? — Are you a friend ? 

Did I apply that noblest of titles to a worthy person, 

Or does black deceit also lurk within your bosom ? 

(Bartenstein.) Most gracious Majesty, I am amazed at such suspicion. 

(Emprcst.) Forgive Bartenstein, my strange conduct. 
My mind is troubled from dreams most ominous, 
And though I have rebelled against mistrust, 
Yet suspicion will arise within me 
And cause my tongue to utter unkind words 
Even against my best and truest friends. 
Pray tell me what is the news from Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony? 



~ 28 — 

(Bart rvfti nr> ) Your Majesty's question is most opportune* 
For even this morning have I heard of those 
Concerning whom your Highness has inquired. 

( Empress ) What have you learned and from whom ? 

( Bartenatein.) Hear me your Majesty. 
This morning, just as I approached the garden entrance, 
A stranger, by appearance a Hungarian nobleman 
And with a countenance indicating a truthful character, 
Spoke thus to me : 

Sir, pardon me, I believe you are Minister Bartenstein, 
And if you truly love your country 
Delay not a moment to inform your Empress 
That Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony 
Have formed a conspiracy to crush the throne of Austria* 

( Fmpreaa > Who is the stranger ? 
Such accusation requires more than mere words 
And an honest face. Let him appear at once 
That we might examine the source of his alarming information. 

(Loud knocking is heard.) 

(Empress.) Who is there? 

(Enter Count Boskay much excited. He kneels before the Empress.) 

Pardon me most gracious Majesty, for thus appearing unannounced. 

Gratitude to thee and anxiety for Austria's welfare only 

Can excuse my boldness. 

Believe me your Majesty, against the House of Hapsburgh 

Thy enemies have weaved a conspiracy so fine, 

That a spid3r would in vain endeavor 

To finer weave its nest. 

To destroy and cripple Austria's power a web is being spun at present, 

Of which Prussia is the spinning master, 

While Bavaria, Prussia, .France and Saxony 

The material will furnish for the webs speedy completion. 

Here is evidence of the conspiracy's magnitude. 

(Boskay gives the Empress documents which she silently reads 
with apparent indignation.) 

(Empress.) As I live ! this is indeed a royal brotherhood of treachery. 

(Bartenstein to Boskaii.) My lord, should that document prove a forgery. 
Then by the sword of St. Stephen, you will be dishonored. 



— 29u-~ 

(Boskay.) Sir! such foul imputation against aBoskay is un^ar.Tonab!c. 
To let it pass unresentcd would prove uie unworthy 
Of my glorious ancestors. 
Sir! byHungaria's honor, I am no forger. 
Here i3 my gauntlet, take it up or heal my wounded honor 
By a speed}' retraction. 

(Empress.) Sir! take up thy gauntlet. 
That honor which fancies itself wounded 
By every unguarded expression in excitements moment, 
And without first resorting to reason seeks at once a bloody vindication, 
Is poor indeed. 

Btska'y.) Does your Majesty also distrust me ? 
Speak, in what have I offended. 

Be assured, until my report is affirmed by a more trustworthy person, 
Boskay will remain thy prisoner. 

i 
(Enter a Servant.) 

(Servant.) If it please your Majesty, Count Wasner begs leave 
to see you at once. 

(Empress.) Count Wasner here in Vienna? Why has he re- 
turned IV<»m Paris without our permission? Quick let hiin appear. 
(Exit Servant.) My I »r»I B.>skay, Count Wasuer's sudden return 
from the Court of Fiance confirms my suspicion that your report is 
not without foundation. Barteusteiu, theie is truth in it. 

(Bartenstein ) I cannot believe it. 

(Enter Count Wasner much excited. He reverently approaches 
the Empress and says: ) 

God preserve your Highness. 

Mighty thing* are being planned against the House of Hapsburgh. 

In deep secrecy plans are being made 

Concerning which I have positively learned 

That Bavaria. Prussia, France and Saxony 

Have solemnly combined to break the covenant 

Of the Pragmatic Sanction. 

And therefore Ihave left the Court of France 

To inform your Majesty of this treacherous combination. 



— so ■— 

(Emprtas) Can it be? Can it be? > 

Bartenstein re d aloud this document of treachery. 
I'ead it slow and with such emphasis as to leave no doubt 
Concerning its base significance. 

(Bartenstein reads. All listen eagerly.) 

His Highness, King Louis of France, hereby promises Bavaria 
the German Imperial throne. Should the French promise provoke 
the hostility of other European powers, in that event France will also 
furnish for Bavaria's defence sixty thousand soldiers. In consider- 
ation of the benefits received, Charles Albert of Bavaria promises to 
resign now and forever all claims on Luxemburgh and all the Austrian 
Netherlands. Furthermore, Prussia, France, Bavaria and Saxony 
hereby -agree to enter solemn protest against the covenant of the 
Pragmatic Sanction, and if peaceful means will not induce Maria 
Theresa to pait with such dominion as we may designate, then war 
will be inevitable. 
[Signed.] 

LOUIS, king of France. 

FREDERICK, king of Prussia. 

AUGUSTUS, king of Saxony. 

CHARLES ALBERT, duke of Bavaria. 

(All but the Empress cry out:) Shameful! thrice shameful such 
conspiracy. 

(Empress takes the document and with sarcasm says:) And if 
peace fid means will not induce .Maria Theresa to part with siuh do- 
minion as we, — as we, bear in mind gentlemen, as we may designate, 
then war will be inevitable. Ah ha! at first measures of peace, and 
then, — bless their royal hearts, —inevitable war, provided, —how pro- 
vokingly kind, -their royal appetites for Austrian dominion is not 
speedily satisfied, Luxemburgh and all, all, why of course all the 
Austrian Netherlands. How very modest these royal gentlemen. 
We are just a little anxious to learn how much this model combina- 
tion of royalty will deign to accept. They have kindly consented to 
designate such portions of our dominion as would confer most benefit 
to their States. How touchingly kind to spare us the embarrassment 
of making the selection. 



— m. ■ — 

Oh, you robber monarchs! 

All is to rne now clearly defined. 

Because I am a mere woman 

They would dim the splendour of the House of Hapsburgh. 

If so, let come what may, 

Austria's Empress will prove to be an Emperor ! 

(All present cry out:) God preserve our Empres3. 

(Empress.) Sir Bartenstein, we must act at once. Go, inform 
General Braun to report for active duty. 

(Birtenatein.) May Heaven be with you. (Exit Bartenstein.) 

(Empress.) Sir Wasner, do not return to France until further 
orders. 

(Wasner.) May God be our guide. (Exit Wasner.) 

(RiH/»-e>8 ) Of your friendship, my noble Boskay, I feel assured. 
Go now and induce every Hungarian to follow your example. 

(Boskay.) To tint end I pledge my sacred honor. (Exit Bosk.) 

Ab, Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony ! 

Come forth in your deceit and treachery, 

A daughter of the House of Hapsburgh 

Will baffle your shameful plans by determined opposition. 

And though you add uncounted numbers to your band 

She'll fling defiance in your every face, 

And with hcr'iast drop of blood tyuurd her just inheritance. 

Austria, dear Austria! I love thee. 

Not a single province shall they pluck from my bosom. 

Farewell sleep! sweet, sweet rest adieu ! 

Fear not. my Austria, thy Empress wakes for you 

(End of Act Second.) 



32 



ACT III.— SCENE I. 

(Grand Court building containing the throne room, etc. A park 
in front of the building. The Court building is closed. Enter the 
park Agnes.) 

(Agnes.) Gracious heaven ! such excitement and upheaval as 
prevails at present about the Court. Such hustle and bustle. Every- 
thing topsy tui'v-y. And the good and loveable Empress. One moment 
in tears, the next full of dt fiance and courage. Always in consul-' 
tation. Now sending for Minister Barten stein., now for her dear 
husband, now for General Braun, now for Duke so and so, now for 
Count so and so, for me all the time, and for Doctor Haversack hal. 
ha! — for Doctor Haversack of voice manipulation fame never, be- 
cause really, the old man comes without being called, and is gen- 
erally to be found most where he is wanted least. 

(During the above dialogue the Doctor enters. , He, stealthily ap- 
proaches Agnes,, listens attentively and when she finishes .speaks direct- 
ly into her ear:) Thank you Miss Agnes. (Aside.) Quite a doubt- 
ful compliment. 

(Agnes.) Heavens! oh Doctor! how you have frightened me. 
Oh, my! Well, what now? I'm in a great hurry. 

(Djctor.) Nothing less 1113' lovely friend than a little disserta- 
tion on the manipulation of the voice. A kind of diagnosis of vocal- 

[ ^ ...... _ ... . o 

ization. (Produces his manuscript.) Since hist we met I have ar- 
ranged my manuscript real nicely and have practiced every possible 
modulation of the voice. Forte, fortissimo, piano, pianissimo, trem- 
idando agitato et cetera infinitum. 

(Agnes aside.) Et cetera infinitum. That means no end and so 
forth to his vaporation. What shall I do? The Empress expects me 
every moment. I must try and vex him. 



— 33 — 

(Doctor.) Come now you charming rogue, sit right here. Now 
before commencing I will explain the object I have in view in writing 
this essay. The reason of it — 

(Agnes.) So you really have an object in view, and reason in, 
in a, in your — what do you call it? 

(Doctor.) Vocal diagnosis Agnes, vocal diagnosis is its name. 

(Agnes.) All name I presume. 

(Doctor.) All name? — You are quite complimentary. 

(Agnes aside.) Oh, what a persevering bore! (To Doctor.) 
Commence reading at once. I presume the essay or diagnosis ex- 
plains itself. 

(Doctor.) Certainly Miss Agnes, all my efforts are self explan- 
atory. Only one word and I'll commence. You see Miss Agnes, — 
this is strictly confidential, — I have read quite a number of so called 
treatises on voice manipulation, but, really, the authors impressed 
me as being but very superficially acquainted with the subject, and 
when I compared my work with theirs, I can assure you Mi>s Agnes, 
— in all modesty be it said, — I felt a thrill, an all pervading thrill of 
satisfaction to know that my rival authors are mere blockheads, and 
they know it. 

(Agnes.) Is it possible ? But Doctor, is it not far better to be 
a blockhead and know it, than to be a blockhead and not know it. 

(Doctor.) Oh, certainly Miss Agnes. (Aside) Quite a doubt- 
ful compliment. 

(Agnes aside.) He will not be vexed. I shall try another 
remedy. (Agnes moves up close to the Doctor and gently puts one 
arm around his neck, and with the other manages to take the manu- 
script. 

(Agnes.) Doctor do you know that you are daily growing more 
handsome, more winning in manner. 

(Doctor aside.) Ah ha, at last a genuine compliment. 



— 34 — 

(Agnes.) That is, I mean to say you are growing younger, 
more childlike, innocent and simple in your ways. Really, at times 
you are an object most beautiful to behold. Oh, how beautiful! how 
handsome this little mouth, this classic nose, these ears, and what 
majesty in this alabaster brow! 

(Doctor) Oh, Agnes ! your every word is like a drop from the 
fountain of youth which I eagerly drink. Drop, drop on sweet foun- 
tain. To be thus rejuvenated! oh, I am as it were in a trance. — 
Drop, drop on sweet fountain. 

(Agnes aside.) He is as it were in a trance. The dear little 
thing, I must awake him. Drop, drop down sweet Doctor. (Agnes 
suddenly gets up which causes the bench upon which she and the Doc- 
tor were sitting to upset, thereby causing the Doctor to fall heavily upon 
the ground. Exit Agnes with manuscript.) 

(Doctor) My trance was of very short duration. Evidently 
the shortest on record. In historica medica no case of trance can be 
found where similar means were employed with such decided success 
to revive the subject. I fully realize that the manner of my bringing 
to was very novel and thoroughly elective. I admit its effect, but 
in the name of old Esculapius I most emphatically object to the man- 
ner of its application. I do not permit to be experimented with. 
However, I must forget and forgive these youthful indiscretions on 
the part of Agnes. When she grows old she will become more re- 
spectful. But when Agnes grows old, how old will I be? I will not 
discuss that subject. It's too old. There is another matter which 
causes me great anxiety. I mean the affairs of State. My sentiments 
and opinions concerning matters of State are of late entirely ignored. 
It sometimes seems to me that the Empress has lost all confidence in 
my statesmanship. It does look that way indeed. However, per- 
haps I am too modest. Perchance, if I was to make a great effort in 
overcoming my natural modesty and volunteer my advice upon mat- 
ters of State, the Empress would feel profoundly grateful. I know 
what is going on. I do indeed. And forthwith, at once, this very 
moment I will go to the Empress and assert my patriotism, and use 



— 35 — 

every effort to change the current of misfortune now rolling ngainst 
Austria. I ought never to have wasted my time on the study of med- 
icine, because I feel, I feel it in every fibre of my body that I am a 
born Statesman, and long after my body will be mouldering in the 
grave, history will speak of me, Augnstiiius Haversack as Austria's 
chief benefactor. I feel, I feel the Statesmanship within. (Exit 
Doctor.) 

(Enter stealthily two Prussian officers with large hats, large cloaks 
and swords on their person. 

( William.) As I live, that is the longest winded cur of an 
Austrian Statesman I ever heard. A regular wind bag. 

(Frederick.) Never mind the fellow. The document is the thing. 
What about it? Where is it? What have yoa learned concerning- it? 
You know that our life depends upon its recovery ; 
For through our negligence it came into possession 
Of that barbarous Hungarian Count Boskay, who played his part so well 
As to make one believe that he were a friend of our cause. 

( William.) I have learned this last evening in spying about the cstle, 
That the Empress is in full possession of the document, 
And now constantly carries it as though it were a precious treasure. 
Within her bosom. 

Furthermore I have learned that every morning 
Just before entering upon the duties of the day, the Empress passes through 

this park, 
To visit the castle garden, and having finished her physical exercise, 
Retires to a chapel for spiritual consolation, 
As she is said to be of a very pious disposition. 

(Fre</rrir.k.) Truly, you have performed your work most faithfully. 
But how obtain possession of the document ? 

( William ) As self preservation is the first law of nature, 
And as our lives depend upon its recovery ; 
And having been obtained from us under false pretenses, 
Every means will be justified to regain its possession ; 
Even force if necessary. 

(Frederick.) A very risky business, an assault upon royalty. 



— 36 — 

(William.) We have no other alternative. 
But see ! yonder approaches a woman of majestic presence. 
See ! her eyes are fixed upon something in her hands. 
As I live ! she is reading a document. 

Now she stands motionless, appearing like one in deep thought. 
See ! how her eyes flash with indignation. 

By heavens ! she has the grandest countenance that ever fell to woman's lot. 
Come, we must conceal ourselves and only then venture forth 
When every obstacle In the way of success is removed. 
Extreme prudence is necessary. She is coming towards the park. 
Come, come, let us away and await the opportunity 
To accomplish our design. 

(Exit Frederick and William. They conceal themselves. Enter 
Empress in deep thought. In her hand she has the document.) 

(Empress ) What though the blood of innocence will flow in torrents, 
Every bond of affection be rudely torn assunder, 

Husband from wife, father from children, and children from parents. — 
Why all that will prove but beneficial to my just and holy cause. 
Why I am a monarch, a divinely appointed king ; 
And at will a king may chaos unto nations bring. 
'T is true my conscience, — did I say conscience ? 
Ah, bah, conscience ! — a mere empty phrase without significance, 
To be applied to superstitious stock 
For the increase of the clergy's flock. 
Ha ! ha ! conscience, — treachery, — honor. — foolish words. 
For timid babes to stay ambitions sword. 
The body dead, — the soul also dead, — all, all is o'er, 
When hearts beat time no more. 

1*11 stifle the voice of conscience let come what may.— 
To be written and talked about gained the day. 
Be shrewd Frederick, prove no fool, 
Let not poor conscience thy interests rule. 
Only to yourself truthful be, 
To all others full of subtlety. 
Say yes, but mean no. — Say no but mean yes. 
Thus argued Prussia's unscrupulous king and false philosopher 
When first he concocted the base treachery contained in this document. 
But enough of this. Though my soul is filled with indignation, 
Yet must I appear quiet and composed before the Lord Ambassador, 
Who this day is pleased to present to the House of Hapsburgh, 
Hypocritic offers of good will and peace from Prussia's sovereign. 
To day offers of good will. To morrow ? — Well, we are prepared. 









— 37 — 

(The Empress conceals the document. Enter suddenly Frederick 
and William.) 

(Frederick.) Stay ! not another step. 

(Empress.) Villains ! how dare you thus to address me ? 
On your knees implore our Imperial pardon. 
Behold ! 

(The Empress throws back her garment and displays her imperial 

insignia.) 

(Fred to Will ) The majesty of that woman fills me with awe. 

( Will to Fred.) And out of me she has driven every spark of courage. 
What shall we do ? 

(Fred ) I will address her. 
The document now concealed in the bosom of your Majesty, 
Was placed in our charge by royal hands. 
And while carrying it to the ministry one Count Boskay, 
Through artful pretense gained our confidence ; 
Inviting us to dine, wine and make merry with him. 
And having freely partaken our tongues became unguarded 
And babbled concerning our important mission. 
When forthwith Boskay filled and refilled our bumpers 
Thus making our complete intoxication inevitable. 
And while in that condition this same accursed Boskay 
Took from us the document and placed it at your Majesty's disposal. 
The document we must recover lest our lives be forfeited. 
And therefore your Majesty, surrender it freely, without compulsion. 

(Empress.) The document is the best evidence of your kings guilt, 
And in our hands 't will prove the instrument of his disgrace. 
And yet, you demand its surrender, freely without compulsion, 
Lest, perchance, you would compel us by cowardly force. 
Villains ! why so tremble ? 

( William.) We must secure the document let come what may. 

(They advance towards the Empress.) 

(Empress ) Stay ! your unhallowed hands dare not touch this our 

annointed body; 
But should you dare, 't is not manly courage but sheer desparation which 

prompts you. 
Provoking only our supreme contempt. 



— 38 — 

(Frei. and Will, again advance towards the Empress. At this mo- 
ment Boskay with drawn sword rushes upon the scene and exclaims:) 

By St. Stanislaus ! this is indeed supreme audacity. 

(Fred, and Will, with drawu swords turn on Boskay. A fierce 
struggle ensues. Finally Boskay drives them from the park and fol- 
lows. The Empress eagerly watches the combatants and exclaims :) 

9 
May heaven protect thee thou brave Hungarian. 
See ! how his noble arm swings the bright sword, 
Every blow of which making victory more assured. 
Be steadfast Boskay. Ah ! what a tremendous stroke, 
Prostrating one of the villains, leaving but one to battle with. 
Now the enemy is finished and the offer of an indignity to Austria's Empress 
Fearfully avenged. {Enter Boskay.) 

{Boskay ) Be composed most gracious Majesty. 
I have slain both your assailants, and now that all danger 
To your august person is past permit me to retire ; 
As news defining Hungaria's attitude towards Austria 
May arrive at any moment, and which having received 
I will at once convey to your Majesty. 

(Empress.) Our sincere thanks, brave Boskay. And now, be- 
fore — oh!— what a strange feeling overcomes me. Everything is 
growing dark. Please assist me. Agnes! where is Agnes? Oh! 
(Empress sinks exhausted into a chair and faints. Boskay runs to 
her assistance.) 

(Boskay.) This is very unfortunate just at this moment. 

( Enter Agnes hastily.) Has anyone called me? — Heavens! what 
has befallen her Majesty? 

(Boskay. ) Pardon fair lady, the Empress has suddenly taken ill. 

(Enter Francis.) What can possibly detain Maria for so long a 
time. The Ambassador from Prussia is waiting and is growing im- 
patient. Heaven! yonder she is. What is the matter? Maria! 
Maria! speak to me. I am Francis. Agnes find the Doctor at once. 



— 39 — 

(Agnes.) Yonder he is. I will call him. Doctor! doctor Au- 
gustinus Haversack, come quickly. 

(Enter Doctor hastily.) 

(Agnes.) Quick, quick dear good Doctor. The Empress is 
ill. (Doctor approaches the Empress.) 

(Doctor.) Pardon me Sir Duke. (Attends the Empress.) — 
Nothing serious. Simply a case of complete exhaustion caused by a 
reaction consequent upon great excitement. The Empress will soon 
recover. There, there it is all over. 

(Empress.) Ah, Francis! you here? How fortunate. Now I 
feel secure. Our sincere thanks are due to Count Boskay for liber- 
ating us from the hands of two unscrupulous villains who were about 
to attack our person to secure the document. 

(Francis to Boskay.) My noble lord, in the name of Austria, 
I thank you for your valorous deed. 

(Boskay.) Sir, I did but my duty and am thankful to heaven 
for my timely presence. With her Majesty's kind permission I will 
now retire. 

(Empress.) Not until you accept this as a memento of this 
memorable day. (Boskay kneels while the Empress decorates him 
with a gold chain and cross.) 

(Boskay.) Too much honor your Majesty for one so unworthy. 

(Empress.) Most worthy indeed. Once again our sincere thanks. 

(Boskay.) This is too much happiness ! (Exit Boskay.) 

(Francis.) How happy I am to see you better. Your long ab- 
sence alarmed us. Remember Maria, the Ambassador from Prussia 
is waiting. (Enter Bartenstein hastily.) 

( Bartenstein . ) Pardon me your Highness, but really the Am- 
bassador is waiting and growing impatient. It is long past the time 
appointed for his reception. 



— 40 — 

(Empress.) Yes, yes, the delay was caused by a very distress- 
ing incident. Let us go at once. (All present but the Doctor make 
ready to go.) 

(Doctor.) Only one moment. Hem, hem, perhaps your Ma- 
jesty and other dignitaries would like to hear my latest entitled, how 
to preserve the empire. (Produces a huge manuscript.) 

( B xrtenstein aside.) The Lord have mercy on us now. 

(Agnes aside.) More trouble. One calamity upon another. 

(Francis aside.) How supremely impudent! 

(Empress) Sir Bartenstein, how is it? Which is the most im- 
portant? The Doctor's latest or the relief of the Ambassador? 

(Bartenstein.) Really most gracious Majesty, your relief from 
the Doctor I consider just now the most important. 

(Agnes aside.) Ha! ha! ha! My sentiments precisely. 

(Francis.) Remember Maria, the Ambassador is waiting. 

(Doctor. ) I will begin at once. 

(Empress.) One moment. I am as it were in a dilemma. I 
am obliged to choose between two evils. I must either listen to the 
good Doctor's latest, or give an audience to a person whose master 
I very much dislike. Of the two evils I will choose the lesser, and 
— pardon me dear Doctor, — grant the audience. 
(Exit all but Doctor. ) 

(Agnes to Doctor while going out : ) Farewell Doctor August- 
inus Haversack. The fountain of youth is still dropping, come and 
rejuvenate. 

(Doctor.) Humph. So the Empress found herself in a dilem- 
ma. She was apparently obliged to choose between two evils. My 
great essay, how to preserve the Empire, an evil? It was ever thus. 
Genius is never recognized until too late. My case precisely. My 
essay an evil? Humph. Quite a doubtful compliment. 

(Exit Doctor.) 



— 41 — 

(Enter Count Goiter, Prussian Ambassador to the Court of 
Austria, and Count Wasner.) 

(Goiter.) I assure you, Sir Wasner, this delay is positively 
annoying. It is now two hours beyond the time appointed for my 
reception, and still no sign that I will be received. My treatment 
since my arrival presages a very cold and indifferent reception. 
Really, ISir Wasner, I regard this delay as a deliberate insult to my 
king. 

(Wasner.) Patience my dear Sir Gotter. I beg you to have 
only a little longer patience. The. delay is not intentional but rather 
unavoidable. The Empress is deeply impressed with the great im- 
portance of your high mission. Only a little longer patience. Why 
sir, a diplomat should not know impatience. I regret that my com- 
pany failed to allay your anxiety. Come let us take a stroll in the 
park, perhaps the beauties of nature will amuse you. 

(Gotter.) I trust that my impatience did not offend. But really, 
I have waited for two hours. Remember Sir, I am representing my 
royal king and who would think of making a king wait for even two 
moments. (Enter Doctor.) 

(Wasner aside.) Confounded! there comes that intolerable 
literary nuisance. 

(Gotter aside.) A most impudent interruption. 

(Doctor.) Pardon me, Sir Wasner, but perhaps I can assist 
you in amusing your friend by reading the very latest production of 
my pen. 

(Wasner.) I dare say you could. Your productions are gen- 
erally very amusing. 

(Doctor.) Ah, thank you. (Aside.) Quite a doubtful compli- 
ment. (To Gotter.) I am Doctor Augustinus Haversack, medical 
advisor of the Empress, and, — in all modesty be it said, — Art critique 
and Historian. I am glad to meet you. (Extents his hand. Count 
Gotter gives him a look of supreme contempt, ignoring the proffered 
hand. To Wasner:) A most imputent interruption. 



— 42 — 

fWasner to Doctor zvith sarcasm.) Doctor Augustinns Haver- 
sack, Medical advisor. Art critique and Historian ; I very much re- 
gret thst just at present we are neither in need of medicine, criticism 
or historic information; but are very much in need of rest, uncon- 
ditional rest. (To Gotter.) This way, if you please. The moment 
for your reception has come. This way Sir Gotter, if yon please. 
(Exit Wasner and Gotter.) 

(Doctor.) Unconditionsl rest. — Exactly, — hem, — exactly. — 
Yes, yes. — Precisely, precisely so. In other words, your literary 
gas, Doctor, is very offensive. I must admit that all my efforts to 
administer it has been hitherto singularly unsuccessful. — Her 
Majesty, the Empress, Minister Bartenstein, and all the members of 
the Court, while they are very attentive to all my medical advise, 
utterly ignore me as an authority upon Art and History. Doctor, 
perhaps, after all your experience, were it not oetter to stick to your 
last? Let Art severely alone. It is not your element. Let History 
speak to eaeh person for itself. Medicine, pure and simple med- 
icine, that is where you are at home, and henceforth dear old Escu- 
lapius shall be my sole companion. Vale! Art. —Vale! History. — 
Vale! to all but the chosen profession of my youth. Unconditional 
rest.; — That was a whole volume of advise, and, though hard to ack- 
nowledge, a salutary, but very doubtful compliment. 

(Exit Doctor.) 

(Music is heard. TJie grand entrance of the throne room 
opens. Enter the royal procession . consisting of civil and mili- 
tary officers, maids of honor, pages, etc. Empress enters and as* 
cends the throne. She is attired with the crown and mantle of 
St. Stephen. When all present have taken their position, a 
herald enters.) 

(Herald.) If it please your Majesty, Sir Count Gotter, Am- 
bassador of his Highness the king of Prussia, awaits your gracious 
pleasure. 

(Empress.) We are pleased to receive Sir Gotter. Conduct 
him in our presence. (Exit herald. He returns i mined lately ac- 
companied by Bartenstein, Wasner and Sir Gotter. "They ap- 
proach the throne. ) 



— 43 — 

(Bartenstein. ) If it please your Highness, I have the honor to 
present Sir Count Gotter, Ambassador of his royal Majesty the king 
of Prussia. 

(Empress.) We are pleased to hear Sir Gotter. 

. (Count Gotter.) Peace and good will towards the House ef Hapsburgh. 
Thus my royal king greets Austria's young and most accomplished-sovereign. 
The king presents his sincere and heartfelt wishes for your Majesty's welfare, 
And is deeply anxious that sweet peace may forever reign 
Throughout all your land. 

And upon the covenant of the Pragmatic Sanction 
He invokes the blessings of the King of Kings and devoutly prays 
That throughout all your reign it may remain unbroken. 

[Empress 1 How well your king has taught you to pray. 
To list ?n to your devout invocation for our welfare, 
Is to be almost persuaded that your saintly king ..bhors hypocrisy. 
That he is the very soul of sincerity, 

That he despises the empty pomp and vanity of all earthly power, 
And only strives for a crown of celestial glory. 
His pious call upon the King of Kings is base mockery 
When compared with the evidence of his foul treachery. 
Behold ! (The Empress holds forth the document.) 

( Sir Gotte*-.) Base treachery ! My king a hypocrite ? 
Oh, Majesty! you have been deceived. 

(Empress.) Sir Bartenstein, take the document and reveal its 
consents to Sir Gotter. and thereby convince him that Prussia's king 
is indeed a hypocrite and arch deceiver. (Bartenstein takes the doc- 
ument and shows its contents to Sir Gotter, who seems a mazed beyond 
expression.) 

(Empress.) What now Sir Gotter, is not that a royal brother- 
hood of treachery? (Count Gotter remains silent and bows his head 
with shame. ) 

(Empress.) Ah ! Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony. 

How vain, how vain will your intrigues prove. 
Like a brood of thieves you have lurked to pluck 



— 44 — 

From Austria's crown its most cherished laurels. 

May you beware, for oft the Earth had woman 

Who like men swayed their country's shield. 

I am such woman ! I too a shield will sway, 

So help me Jehovah, in defence of my Austria. 

Be witness Sir Gotter, {Empress draws the sword) see! by the sword of 

St. Stephen, 
Austria's Empress now does swear 
That all Earth combined shall not, nay dare not 
Her just and lawful rights impair. 

(End of Act Third.) 






ACT IV.— SCENE I. 

(Grain/ Ancestral Hall of the Hungarian diet in the city of 
Pressbtirgh, Httngaria. The hall contains a throne and all the 
necessary implements for the reception of royalty. Bartenstein and 
// asner busily engaged in conversation.) 

(Bartenstein.) Really Count Wstsner, ever since the Emp 
so summarily dismissed Count Gotter, Ambassador of his royal high- 
ness the king of Prussia, and her subsequent positive refusal to ne- 
gotiate with Bavaria, Prussia, France and Saxony with reference to 
the surrender of parts of Austria's dominion, especially Silesia, the 
condition of the empire lias daily grown more desperate and deplor- 
able. The combined forces of the enemy have concentrated against 
the House of Hapsburgh, and though our troops, encouraged by the 
lofty patriotism and indomitable will of the Empress have fought most 
bravely, yet have they by virtue of the enemy's superior numbers 
been defeated in well nigh every instance, and the waves of misfor- 
tune have so steadily and with such force beaten against the Austrian 
Ship of State that only a miracle can save it from becoming a total 
wreck. It is true that from the beginning I counseled her Majesty 
to resist every attempt to infringe upon her royal rights and prero- 
gatives, but now that 1 plainly see the coming disaster, it would be 
folly to farther encourage resistance, and therefore, I have fully de- 
termined to advise her .Majesty that in my humble judgment it would 
be political suicide to longer oppose the combined strength of the 
Powers arrayed against the House of Hapsburgh. 

( Wasner. ) And have you really the courage to advise her Ma- 
jesty to that effect? 

( Bartenstein.) I am determined, because I deem it my duty to 
the State. 



— 40 — 

I Warner. ) Have you my noble friend considered that your ad- 
vise may induce her Majesty to depose you from your exalted po- 
sition of Prime Minister? 

(Bartev stein..) I have thought of everything and am prepared 
for all the consequences. It is true that the Empress builds greatly 
upom Count Boskay and expects through his influence to win back the 
full confidence of the Hungarian nobility. But, my dear Wasner, 
building upon Boskay. and expecting the aid of Hungaria has been 
going on too long already, and even now that the State is on the 
verge of ruin, nothing positive concerning Hungaria's intention is 
known. Therefore, why wait longer when delay is so dangerous? 

(Wasner.) I too feel that Austria's liberator, should he ac- 
tually come, dare not delay his appearance lest all will be lost. For 
myself dear Bartenstein, I care nothing. But our poor forsaken 
Empress. Her unfortunate condition pierces my very soul. The 
unaccountable and singular misfortunes that have befallen the Im- 
perial army from the very beginning of the present conflict, weigh 
most heavily upon her Majesty's great and heroic soul. The bloody 
wounds inflicted upon the people have lacerated her patient heart, 
and often in the silence of the night when all the land is wrapt in 
slumber, Austria's Empress lies prostrate before Jehovas tin-one, fer- 
vently praying that the rod of chastisement may be speedily with- 
drawn. Should Boskay and his brave countrymen be destined by 
Heaven to come to Austria's rescue, then I too pray that they may 
conic quickly. ( Enter Doctor, slowly in deep thought^ without 
//is usual mamiscrifit.) 

( BartenMein. ) May Heaven speedily grant 1 he petition of her 
Majesty. Hut see, yonder comes the Doctor. Can I trust my eyes? 
As I live, he is without his customary manuscript. Well, that is one 
consolation. Perhaps his last experience with Count (Jotter and 
yourself has opened his eyes. 

( Wasner.) The kind old man's heart is evidently full of com- 
passion for the Empress. 



— 47 — 

(Doctor not aware of the presence of Bartenstein ami Wasner.) 
My beloved Empress. How your condition troubles me. When dur- 
ing the watch of the night J gazed upon your pallid and still beauti- 
ful countenance and there saw the deep lines which the finger of suf- 
fering had traced ; there came to me as in a dream the remembrance 
of the days of your childhood ; the remembrance of the golden and 
glorious years of your youth. Once again I beheld you throwing 
yourself into the arms of your old friend to be tossed to and fro and 
round and round in merry circles. Once again 1 pictured your little 
head with its wealth of flowing tresses resting upon my shoulders, while 
your young heart poured into my confidence all its fancied so'rrow 
and grievance. And thus while revelling in the sunshine of your 
past, the darkness of your present was suddenly realized, when in 
restless slumber you again, and again cried out: "What may the 
future have in store tor me? Oh, my people! could I but save my 
beloved Austria!" 

( Ba rte nst c in and Wasner.) What a sad picture of our beloved 
Empress. (Barf, to Doctor.) Pardon, dear Doctor. Pray tell us 
the true condition of the Empress. 

( Doctor. ) Ah, good friends, sad, very sad indeed. Her High- 
ness is suffering met tally not physical^. A deep melancholy seems 
to have taken the place of her former lofty courage. 

(Bartenstein.) Silence! sec yonder the Empress. 

( Enter Empress dressed in Jeep mourning. She is not aware 
of the presence of any one. In Iter hands she carries a crown and 
scepter. ) 

(Wasner in a hue voice.) Great God! what a change in her 
appearance. 

(Wasner. Bartenstein and the Doctor remain motionless, watching 
the Empress >elt<> lias assumed a thoughtfid position.) 

(Empress ) How vain, how vain all human speculation. 
Crown and Scepter! how humane, just and charitable 
When resting on a deserving honest head, 



— 48 — 

And in a helpful generous hand. 

frown and scepter! — how oppressive and heavy 

When placed upon a brow full of foul ambition 

And in the grasp of unrelenting selfishness. 

Crown and scepter! — how off in days of happy childhood 

When each dawning morn broughl continuance of purest joy, 

I would furtively glance al those emblems of glory and power 

Inw ardly saying : I would you were mine. 

And how with my nurse — God rest her sweet soul,— 

I woidd plead so ardently to attire me in imperial robes. 

Then with a childish pride I would imitate my fathers gait and gestures, 

And with a heart replete with innocent exultation 

Receive the homage of my darling little playmates. 

Then I was happy, — but now ? 

How vain, how vain! all human speculation. 

( Tin' Empress falls into a chair, rests her lu-oil upon a table and 
weeps. ) 

i Wasner.) See ! Austria's Empress weeps. 

(The Doctor gently approaches the Empress.) 

(Doctor.) Pardon me most gracious Majesty. You are in need 
of rest. Rest, rest both of body and mind are in your cube abso- 
lutely necessary. 

(The Empress rises suddenly in a slut<' of surprise. J 

(Empress.) Ah. Doctor! you here? And you Bartenstein ? 
And you Count Wasner also? How glad I am to find myself in the 
company of good and true friends, since I am so sorely in need of 
friendship. What does it all signify? Have you news from Hunga- 
ria? I tell you Hungaria with divine assistance can alone save Aus- 
tria ( )lt Austria! beloved country, could I but help you. 

(Bartenstein.) Hear me most gracious Majesty. 
The momentous question : how to save the Empire. 
My mind has given long ami careful study 
( Joining at last to this conclusion : 

That Austria compelled by force of circumstances must concede the Prus- 
sian's claim 
And thereby make his aid and friendship positively sure. 



— 40 — 

(Empress.) That Austria should yield to Prussia ? 
Royalty yield to hypocrisy ? Truth to falsity ? Honesty to subtletj ? 
Accursed be the tongue giving such advise. 
I charge you, Bartenstein, take back your counsel 

For your tongue has uttered sentiments unworthy of an Austrian Statesman. 
Oh, Bartenstein ! lias the serpent tongue of Frederick so charmed thy senses. 
That now for his benefit you give us instruction 
To commit Imperial treason ? 
Away! \a,\ sta\ until 1 whisper in your ear 
That such an rider who cowardly barters hi* dominion 
is but a Judas to Ids people. 

(Bartenstein.) Command mj resignation. Reduce me in station 
Even to my former state, a poor plebeian 

But rest assured most gracious majesty that in my humble judgment 
My counsel if followed, will, be for Austria's good. 
The serpent tongue of Frederick has not reached m\ ear. 
Nor have I counseled with any but my own conscience. 
From the Spring time of youth until the very Winter of my days. 
I have labored for Austria's glory; 

And now that the evening of my busj life is drawing nigh, 
And I must soon give an account of my earthly ministry. 
To be accused by my Empress of advising Imperial treason. 
Oh, Majesty ! 't is hard, even more than 1 can bear. 

(Falls on his knees. ) 

(Emjrress aside.) My faithful and venerable Bartenstein on his knees. 

Tins is too much ! 

(To Bartenstein.) Arise! cease your lamentation. lam Empress! 
And though the coming hour be the last of my reign. 
Yet will I adhere to my resolution to reject 
All proposals of Prussia's unscrupulous king. 

And though I now believe thai your ad vice was intended for Austria's good 
Yet must 1 refuse to follow it. 
Give me your hand. Let all be forgotten. 
You have still our full confidence. 

(Bartenstein.) Thanks, thanks most gracious Majesty. 

(Empress.) Hark! what is that? 

(A chorus of voices is heard singing </ wild war smiq as follows:) 

Hungaria, Hungaria thou shalt be free. 
( >ur hearts blood thy sons will shed 
Hungaria for thee. 



— 50 — 

( Entry Count Boskay in great haste.) 

( 1 '><>sl, a >i. ) Hear your Majesty the wild war song of my coun- 
trymen. At last I have at least partially succeeded in winning their 
good will towards Austria. They all are aflame with desire to hear 
from your lips the guarantee of the speedy restoration of Hungaria's 
former rights and privileges. 

( The chorus again sing the- same song.) 

(Empress. ) Hark ! surely that is the sweetest music I heard 
since the day of my coronation. Go Sir Boskay, call hither your 
countrymen. I will retire to prepare for their reception, and while 
uttering Austria's guarantee, may Heaven grant my tongue t lie elo- 
quence of sincerity and truth. 

i Exit all l>nt Boskay.) 

(Enter a company of Hungarian noblemen dressed in flashy uni- 
forms, large hats, and carrying large swords. While entering they 
sing the same war song. J 

(First nobleman.) So this is the day appointed to hear from a 
woinans lips the assurance that Huugaria shall henceforth be per- 
mitted to rule without Austria's interference Very generous indeed. 

(Second nobleman.) Kings and Queens like other individuals 
when forced by sore distress will promise everything. Promises, 
empty promises. You all remember that Austria has dining the last 
decade overflowed with promises towards Huugaria. 

(All the noblemen.) Ida! ha! truly spoken. 

( Third Hungarian.) I would not give a shake of my sword for 
promises made under the influence of misfortune and mental distress. 
No, not a shake of my sword. 

(All of the Hungarians.) Ha! ha! truly spoken. 

( First nobleman. ) It is said that Maria Theresa is a woman of 
surpassing beauty and that her eloquence is quite irresistible. There- 
fore, my noble friends let us he careful lest perhaps the captivating 
grace of our lovely and handsome Queen may influence our judgment. 



— 51 — 

(Second nobleman.) And though she possessed the eloquence 
and charms of an angel, yet will I remain calm, cold and undis- 
turbed in mind. 

(AH of the Hungarians.) Ha! ha! truly spoken. 

(Third nobleman.) I for one have no confidence in the promise 
of woman and I tell you that my sympathy for Maria Theresa can 
only be enlisted beca ise of the great injustice done by other Powers 
in breaking the cove iant of the Pragmatic Sanction. Promises, bah, 
nonsense! Sympatl y for a woman wronged can alone move me. 

(All the Hungarians.) Ha! ha! truly spoken. 

(Boskay who during litis time was standing apart from his coun- 
trymen, approaches and says:) By my patron Saint Stanislaus ! I tell 
you gentlemen, Maria Theresa is a woman of marvelous strength of 
character. Please, please my friends have a little patience, wait 

and see. 

(All of the Hungarians.) Ha! ha! Brother Boskay is evidently 
in love with his young sovereign. 

(Boskay.) Yes, I do love her purity of motive and manly cour- 
age in defending her rights. 

(All the Hungarians.) Ha! ha! Brother Boskay, bravely 
spoken. Let us again sing. (All sing.) 

Hungaria, Hungaria, thou shalt be free. 
Our heartsblood thy sons will shed 
Hungaria for thee. 

(Enter a herald.) 

( Herald) If it please the noble Lords, her Majesty the Empress 
is now ready to be heard. 

i Enter Em press attired with the royal crown and mantle of St. 

Stephen. In her arms she curries her infant son Joseph. She is at- 
tended h>/ Bartenstein. Wanner, Doctor, D%ike Francis and Agnes. 
At sir/ltt of the Empress all of the Hungarians remove their hats and 
assume a semi kneeling position. 



— 52 — 

( First nobleman in a Irnr mire. ) Truly she is a woman of ma- 
j estic presence. 

(Second nobleman.) The very incarnation of grace and beauty. 

(Boska 'y approaches the throne.) I have longed for this oppor- 

I unity, most gracious Majesty, to present to you my honored couir 
t rymen. 

[Empress*) Yes. and most happy am I to salute you all as my country- 
men also. 
Arise my luiliJe Lords ! make straight your forms, unbend your knees 
That 1 might see you face to face. 
And now I beg you bear me while I plead my case. 
\o sooner had 1 obtained possession of Austria's throne 
When forthwith a conspiracy was formed to defeat my rights. 
Bavaria, France, Saxony and above all the crafty Prussian. 
Solemnly agreed that to uphold the covenant of the Pragmatic Sanction. 
Would prove detrimental to their petty kingdoms. 
With impudence unbounded Prussia demanded surrender of Silesia i 
While France with customary arrogance would have no less 
Than Luxemburg!) and all the Austrian Netherlands. 
In consideration of the German Imperial crown. Albert of Bavaria 
Promised to assist in discrowning a daughter of the House of Hapsburgh. 
Therefore, driven into self defense by such unscrupulous Powers. 
We at once resolved to resist these robber monarchs even unto death. 
Misfortune has followed our anus, city after city has fallen. 
And to-day your Queen knows not whence to fly for refuge. 
1 leai' me Hungarians ! 

Shall future generations accuse your Queen of cowardly laying her crown 
At the feet of Bavaria. Prussia, France and Saxony ? 
< >r is it not far better to die conscious of our right ? 
Will you brave Hungarians die with us rather than sutler our defeat, 
And thus live on forever in the annals of your country's history V 
Should victory attend your banners as I truly believe it will. 

I I miliaria shall be tree to rule and govern as of yore. 

this I promise on the honor of a woman, mother and Queen. 

behold ! (holds forth her .son) pure as the innocent heir of Austria's crown 

M\ motives and intentions are. Will you accept our guarantee? 

/ All tin' Hungarians draic their swords and brandishing them cry 
old with one voice:) 






Moriamur pro rege hostro! We will die for our Kins>! Moria- 
in a r i>r<> rege nostra .' 

(Dodor aside. ) A most decided aud undoubtful compliment. 

(Empi'ess.) Moriamur pro rege nostro! Oh, happy salutation. 
Giving i ew hope and new desire to our weary ministry. 
Weary ? No. not longer weary. 
<io Bartenstein, proclaim unto all our people 
That a new day has broken for the House ofHapsburgh. 
That ov 'i- tin; ruins of the past a now Austria shall arise. 
And that .soon throughout all our land 
Peace, sweet peace shall reign for evermore. 
This also to all our people say : 
G-Od and Hungaria alone saved the day! 

(The End.) 



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